(1622-32) Mo Mexico 4 Reales Philip IV Lucayan Beach Shipwreck VF Details

Original Spink & Sons auction tag included

In stock

SKU
6906599005
  $1,995.00

Description / (1622-32) Mo Mexico 4 Reales Philip IV Lucayan Beach Shipwreck VF Details

Introducing a remarkable piece of numismatic history, the (1622-32) Mo Mexico 4 Reales Philip IV Lucayan Beach Shipwreck VF Details coin. This extraordinary artifact, recovered from the depths of the Lucayan Beach shipwreck, epitomizes the rich maritime history of the 17th century.

The Lucayan Beach Treasure Coins, are one of only a small amount of Shipwreck finds, that can be attributed to Pirates. One of history’s most significant numismatic finds, these are 100% authentic cobs from the wreck salvage. They were minted by Spain, in Mexico for the 13 colonies. The ship transporting them was captured by pirates along with the whole Spanish fleet in 1628 and then lost at sea. Nearly 340 years later they were discovered and these, which are among the last ones available for public purchase, have not seen the light of day for decades and are fresh back from being authenticated and certified by NGC.

The Lucayan Beach Wreck was discovered August 1964 by four Americans in the waters off Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. The 4 divers conducted a water sports business based at the Lucayan Beach Hotel and the discovery was made in only 10' of water less than a mile from the hotel. This was one of the most significant finds in numismatic history. Though the mystery of the ships name was never solved, it's known that it was among the wreck of the Dutch Pirate Piet Heyn who had captured the entire Spanish Fleet at Matanzas Bay, Cuba in 1628. It's known that 2 of the captured vessels were lost at sea during their return voyage, and this is from one of those 2 ships. Piet Heyn (Pieter Pieterszoon) was a Dutch admiral and privateer for the Dutch Republic during the Eighty Years' War. Heyn was the first and the last to capture a large part of a Spanish treasure fleet which transported huge amounts of gold and silver from Spanish America to Spain.

That makes this one of only a few certified pirate treasure finds known. Most of the coins discovered were minted 1613 - 1626 in Mexico City, MX during the reign of Philip IV and bear the OMD Mint mark. A small number of additional coins found were minted during the reigns of Filipe II & III in Potosi, Bolivia & Mexico City bearing the mintmarks PR, OMA & OMP.

Expertly struck between 1622 and 1632, this 4 Reales coin bears the legacy of Philip IV of Spain. Its surface reveals shades of grey and silver, telling a story of its underwater journey and salvaging. The wear and weathering present on the coin are signatures of its underwater abode, enhancing its authenticity and allure.

Displaying a quintessential blend of lighter and darker areas, the coin's intricate details are highlighted, offering numismatists and collectors a glimpse into the past. This rare piece is more than just a coin; it is a tangible connection to an era of exploration and adventure.

Secure this historical treasure and embrace the legacy it carries from the tumultuous waters of the past.

More Information

Grading Service NGC
Grade VF Details
Denomination Type N/A
Mint Location NONE
Designation NONE
Circu/UnCircu Circulated
Grade Add On NONE
Strike Type N/A
Holder Type N/A